`Don't Ask, Don't Tell' won't be repealed for `months,' defense secretary says
Sat. May 29, 2010 12:00 AM by GoPride.com News Staff
defense secretary robert gates
Washington, D.C. -
Defense Secretary Robert Gates is telling troops that "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" isn't going anywhere any time soon.
The House of Representatives voted on Thursday to repeal the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military. A Senate committee approved a similar measure on the same day.
But on Friday, Gates said DADT would be around for months and possibly until the end of the year. He said the military is waiting for the results of a multi-million dollar survey of troops and their families on the issue.
"Every man and woman in uniform is a vitally important part of this review. We need to hear from you and your families so that we can make these judgments in the most informed and effective manner," Gates said. "So please let us know how to do this right."
Even if the Senate passes the legislation, it would still need President Obama's signature. Then it would go back to the Pentagon, for discussions on how to implement the changes.
Gates wants troops to focus on the job at hand and ignore the political fight.
"Do not let the ongoing political debate distract you from what is important: our critical mission to defend our country and our duty to uphold the values represented by the uniform you wear," he said.
The House of Representatives voted on Thursday to repeal the ban on gays and lesbians serving openly in the military. A Senate committee approved a similar measure on the same day.
But on Friday, Gates said DADT would be around for months and possibly until the end of the year. He said the military is waiting for the results of a multi-million dollar survey of troops and their families on the issue.
"Every man and woman in uniform is a vitally important part of this review. We need to hear from you and your families so that we can make these judgments in the most informed and effective manner," Gates said. "So please let us know how to do this right."
Even if the Senate passes the legislation, it would still need President Obama's signature. Then it would go back to the Pentagon, for discussions on how to implement the changes.
Gates wants troops to focus on the job at hand and ignore the political fight.
"Do not let the ongoing political debate distract you from what is important: our critical mission to defend our country and our duty to uphold the values represented by the uniform you wear," he said.